WATCH: TJ Watt ties Michael Strahan's NFL sack record
In the first quarter against the Baltimore Ravens, T.J. Watt thought he tied Michael Strahan’s longstanding NFL sack record. On the Ravens opening drive, Watt took down Baltimore quarterback Tyler Huntley — a play where Huntley fumbled, and Watt celebrated.
However, the celebration was cut short by a controversial scoring decision. The scorekeeper at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore determined Huntley was a runner, and Watt was given no credit for a sack on the play. The Steelers star was still one sack behind Strahan.
Now, Watt is leaving no doubts. With less than two minutes remaining in the first half, the former Wisconsin star took down Huntley with emphasis. Officially, the Steelers star has tied Strahan’s record of 22.5 sacks in a season.
Furthermore, Watt received a congratulations on Twitter from his brother, J.J. Watt.
There was a little gamesmanship in the air earlier in Baltimore. Fortunately, it didn’t prohibit Watt from getting a share of the record. With ample time remaining in the game, the Steelers star will look to stand alone in the record book by recording another sack.
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Throughout the season, Watt has been the star for the Pittsburgh Steelers. While the team’s offense has struggled, Watt has battled through injuries and more to lead the Steelers to a possible playoff spot.
Moreover, the Steelers will need plenty of help to have a chance. First, the Jacksonville Jaguars have to defeat the Indianapolis Colts. Then, the game on Sunday Night Football between the Las Vegas Raiders and Los Angeles Chargers mustn’t end in a tie. Of course, the Steelers have to find a way to defeat the Baltimore Ravens, as well.
Time will tell if Watt can lead the Steelers to the postseason. Either way, he’s been their Most Valuable Player — and a shoe-in for the 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award.